Isaac Newton's Theories Make a Huge Number of Predictions, and the Evidence

question 33

Multiple Choice

Isaac Newton's theories make a huge number of predictions, and the evidence generally fits with the predictions. Nonetheless, most physicists believe that Newton's theories are wrong; that is, they describe only a limited range of cases, rather than all of reality. This state of affairs highlights the ambiguity of:

• A) normative data, because Newton's theory tells us little about how events should unfold
• B) disconfirmation, because Newton's theory is easily disconfirmed
• C) confirming evidence, because Newton's theory is well confirmed but still not true
• D) hypothesis testing, because Newton's theory has resisted a broader test

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Definitions:

Specialize

Concentrating on and becoming expert in a particular subject or skill.

Comparative Advantage

The ability of an individual, firm, or country to produce a good or service at a lower opportunity cost than competitors, enabling more efficient trade.

Production Possibilities Line

A curve depicting all maximum output possibilities for two goods, given a set of inputs.

Trading Possibilities Line

A graphical representation showing the combinations of goods that a country can produce or trade given the resource constraints and technology.